Fall Essentials

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If you've ever stood in front of a bulging closet and thought, "I have nothing to wear," today's story is for you. It's not that you're wrong or suffering from a lack of clothes; the issue is that your wardrobe no longer feels fresh. To help you perk up the things you already own, we've rounded up a selection of spot-on pieces that are sure to make your outfits feel autumnal and look au courant. From a functional-yet-fabulous outerwear option to tremendously cool trousers, we've sourced all the essentials you need right now. Do you need to buy every single piece? No. But if you want to, we won't stop you. Happy shopping!

1. Crewneck Sweater | Porter Grey Cropped Wool Adirondack Sweater ($395, 617.491.0810) in Charcoal
As we've mentioned before crewneck sweaters were a huge runway trend-especially ones with interesting, graphic designs. As such, we had to include this cool option from the Porter Grey ladies, which is available in the incredible charcoal, shown above, as well as a lovely chocolate tone too. We love how it looks paired with a collared shirt and a leather skirt or tapered pants, plus it works perfectly with jeans too. However you wear it, this piece is truly essential. Looking for a less pricey style? Try Topshop's Knitted Fairisle Patterned Jumper ($76) for a cream and black option that's sure to delight.

2. Collared Shirt | Porter Grey Button-Down Blouse ($295, 617.491.0810) in Hunter Green
Giving your crewneck sweater a little polish is easy: all you need is a collared shirt in a contrasting color to wear underneath! On that note, we adore this amazing hunter green iteration, also by Porter Grey. It adds a touch of color and a hint of formality to an otherwise casual sweater, and the combo is not only interesting to look at, it's also sharp enough for the office!

3. Top Handle Bag | Alexander Wang Devere Satchel ($695) in Silver
There are so many chic handbags to pick from right now, but for our money, it's all about a top handle. This silver option from Alexander Wang is a smart choice because it has a ladylike silhouette, but it comes in mirrored leather, which makes the prim shape anything but stuffy. If you're not quite sure you want to commit to our pick, no worries, we found some alternatives. Check out ASOS' Metallic Flat Lock Across Body Bag ($27) if you're looking for something in a warm metallic hue or Topshop's Contrast Pushlock Satchel ($60) if you'd prefer something neutral.

4. Textured Skirt | Dallin Chase Neville Beaded Skirt ($598) in Burgundy
We know you already have fabulous skirts in a range of classic fabrics, but do you have a textured option in your closet? No? Well then, now is the time to pick something up! One piece that's on our radar is this beaded chiffon skirt; it's visually arresting and it would truly enliven your timeless blouses and sweaters. In addition to this slim burgundy number, also check out Moulinette Souers' Beaded Felt Pencil Skirt ($298) for a chic gray/silver option or ASOS White's Boucle Skirt ($72) for a nubby version.

5. Wine Lipstick | Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Luminous Matte Lip Color ($32) in La Sensuelle
After what felt like an eternity of neon-bright lipsticks, the tide has finally turned and we're returning to deeper hues for fall. Celebrate the change with a darkly romantic lipstick, like this stunning and wearable wine-colored lipstick from Chanel. The reddish plum color is simply breathtaking (don't worry, it's not too purple), plus it's an easy-to-wear shade that will flatter a wide range of skin tones. Even better: it's one of Chanel's new Rouge Allure Velvet lipsticks, which are pleasantly matte and super soft! Be sure to check out all eight shades when the lipsticks hit stores in November!

6. Cropped Trousers | J. Crew Café Capri Pants ($148) in Olive Mint
While we adore oversized pants, we also know that not everyone subscribes to this runway trend. Happily, that's not your only option in the pantalones department-you can consider cropped trousers too! While there are many great ankle bone-grazing styles on the market right now, this tweedy pair from J. Crew really works in every way. Pair them with some standout shoes-perhaps in a contrasting color?-and a silky button-up for a look that's the perfect combination of feminine and masculine.

7. Parka | Maje Hariboz Parka ($950, 212.510.8390) in Navy
Dramatic coats were definitely a major trend this season, but that's not the style that we're investing in right now. While dusters are intriguing and bright coats are totally fun, we're going to start with a classic-yet-cool parka. Maje's iteration simply kills it-it's wildly, absurdly perfect-but we also like Patterson J. Kincaid's Angela Fur Trim Parka Vest ($298) in Navy, as it has a fleecy (removable!) lining that's sure to keep you cozy well into winter.

8. High-Heeled Loafer | Etro Chain-Trimmed Leather Pumps ($695)
Whether they're slim or sturdy, high-heeled loafers are back in a major way this season, and we've found some amazing options for you to consider. Etro's super-stylish, two-toned loafer heels are definitely at the top of our list. We love the contrasting color palette and chain details, which combine to form one incredibly interesting pair of shoes. In addition to this sleek and chic option, we also are crazy about Topshop's Sullivan Moccasin Platform Loafers ($124) in Burgundy, which feature a similar chain, plus they have a tassel too and a slightly thicker heel.